Recommended shells for 16-gauge 1932 BH/Grade 5

[Researcher]

I wasn't trying to imply anything, and certainly not suggest --

...it would be detrimental to shoot light loads in a gun capable of shooting heavy loads?

I was just providing some history of 16-gauge loads in North America and what loads were available at the time the gun in question was built.

I'm sure in my own mind that most of these old guns that were in service in the 1920s, 30s, 40s, 50s, 60s and 70s were more often than not being shot with the heaviest loads available. That just being the mind set of the great bulk of North American Nimrods.

[nolasoleil]

FRIENDS...

I deeply appreciate your thoughtful and thorough advice.

[Dennis]

Doesn't the frame size have much to do about what shells are fired in a gun? If I had a 1/2 frame 12 gauge I would feed it light loads which would be great for upland game. I also would most likely not use it for a turkey gun though it may work just fine depending on range. If it was a number 2 frame I would have no hesitation using it for waterfowl or late season pheasant hunting with 2 3/4 inch heavy loads if all else was in good condition. I don't mean baby magnum loads. As stated before though never steel shot for me in a double.

Dennis

[Kensal Rise]

Dennis:
In a way, you are correct. Frame size relates to gun weight and proportion. Smaller frames generally result in lighter guns (all else being equal). Thus lighter loads are appropriate for lighter guns. But it only takes a few good hits with the right size shot to bag a turkey. For that, choke and shooting distance play the major role -- not so much charge weight.
Every original Parker ever made is now a century old or close to it. And out of respect for that and their aging wood, I would not personally put a 2 3/4 inch "heavy load" through any of them. Especially when it's not necessary.